Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC)

Introduction

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is a chemical product of the amino acid, carnitine. It is produced naturally in humans, with the greatest amounts being found in muscles, the brain, and in the testicles. ALC has been studied for its potential use in slowing, and even partially reversing, nerve and brain deterioration associated with the aging process.

Dosage Info

Dosage Range

500-2,500mg daily.

Most Common Dosage

500mg, 2 times a day.

Dosage Forms

Capsules and tablets.

Reported Uses

As part of its role in supporting mental function, ALC may improve memory, attention span, and mental performance in normal people as well as those with brain impairment. It is also instrumental in the production and release of one of the brain’s vital neurotransmitters, a substance scientists call acetylcholine. ALC may also support healthy function of the male reproductive system and improve intracellular energy transfer.

ALC has been studied for its potential use in treating a number of disorders. Some studies have demonstrated memory improvement in rats when given the combination of ALC and lipoic acid. (1) , (2) Studies suggest that ALC can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. (3) , (4) , (5) Though other studies are indicating that Alzheimer’s disease patients treated for one year with ALC gain very little benefit. (6)

ALC may play a role in alcoholism. Animal studies have demonstrated that acetyl-L-carnitine may be useful in preventing damage to cells that may be caused by alcohol. (7) , (8) Another study demonstrated that acetyl-L-carnitine reduced the onset of tremors associated with alcohol withdrawal, suggesting that ALC may be useful in the treatment of alcohol dependence. (9)

Researchers have found that ALC significantly improved fatigue and was well tolerated. (10) , (11)
In elderly patients, ALC has been used to treat depression and improve quality of life. (12) ALC has been used with positive results to treat deteriorations of the nervous system associated with diabetes. (13) Finally, ALC may play a beneficial role in reducing the development of cataracts (14) and has shown positive results in Peyronie's disease. (15)

Toxicities & Precautions

Introduction

Be sure to tell your pharmacist, doctor, or other health care providers about any dietary supplements you are taking. There may be a potential for interactions or side effects.

General

This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.

Side Effects

Although rare, occasional side effects reported with the use of this
dietary supplement include nausea and vomiting. (16) Sleeplessness may occur if taken before bed. Tell your doctor if these side effects become severe or do not go away.

Pregnancy / Breast Feeding

This dietary supplement should not be used if you are pregnant or breast-feeding an infant without first consulting a physician.

Age Limitations

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Since young children may have undiagnosed allergies or medical conditions, this dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician.